Northeast Ohio gets its share of severe weather — hail storms, high winds, and ice storms that can damage or destroy a roof overnight. If your home was hit, navigating the insurance claim process can feel overwhelming. Here's exactly what to do, step by step.
Step 1: Document Everything Before Touching Anything
Before any cleanup or temporary repairs, photograph and video every area of damage — inside and outside. Date-stamp your photos. This documentation is critical for your claim.
Step 2: Call Your Insurance Company Within 24–48 Hours
Most Ohio homeowner policies require you to report damage promptly. Call your insurer, open a claim, and get a claim number. Ask when an adjuster will be assigned.
You have the right to have a roofing contractor present during the adjuster's inspection. We strongly recommend it — adjusters sometimes miss damage that an experienced roofer will catch.
Step 3: Get a Professional Roof Inspection
Have a licensed roofing contractor inspect your roof before or alongside the insurance adjuster. A contractor's written damage assessment provides independent documentation that supports your claim.
Step 4: Understand Your Policy
Know the difference between ACV (Actual Cash Value) and RCV (Replacement Cost Value) policies. ACV policies pay the depreciated value of your roof; RCV policies pay the full replacement cost.
Step 5: Review the Adjuster's Report Carefully
Once you receive the adjuster's report and settlement offer, review it with your contractor. If the estimate seems low or items are missing, you can dispute it or hire a public adjuster.
Never sign a contract with a roofing company before your insurance claim is approved. Reputable contractors will work with your timeline and insurance process — not pressure you to sign immediately.
Pring Roofing has helped hundreds of Cleveland-area homeowners navigate the insurance claim process. We'll inspect your roof, document the damage, and work directly with your adjuster.
Shawn Stypa
Owner of Pring Roofing. Third-generation roofer with over 30 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing across Cleveland and Northeast Ohio.